The Best of Scotland in a Day: Perthshire Castles, Lochs & Highland Cows from Edinburgh

Blair Castle, Queen’s View, a waterfall woodland walk and a meeting with the hairy coos, a classic day in the Highlands with Drive Me Wild Scotland.

Perthshire 1 day Small-group

Duration 1 day

Group size 16

Minimum age 4

Availability All year round

This tour brings together everything people love about Scotland: a castle, mountains, lochs, history, heroes and Highland cows, all in a single relaxed day. There is lots of time off the bus, so it suits anyone who wants to enjoy Highland scenery and nature at an easy pace. You stroll through a pretty cathedral town, tour a famous Highland castle, stand at one of the country’s most admired viewpoints and walk a woodland path to a waterfall, before ending with a face-to-face meeting with the Highland cows. Your driver-guide shares the stories of the Jacobites, Queen Victoria’s love of the Highlands and the heroes of Scottish history.

Itinerary

Day 1 Edinburgh to Dunkeld Itinerary

Morning: Edinburgh to Dunkeld

We head north past Loch Leven and the city of Perth to the pretty village of Dunkeld. Wander its narrow streets or visit Dunkeld Cathedral, a historic church dedicated to St Columba on the banks of the River Tay. Entry is free, and it is a lovely way to begin the day.

Mid-morning: Blair Castle

Next is Blair Castle, a famous Highland fortress with 700 years of history, including the Jacobite Rebellions, the disaster at Culloden and Mary, Queen of Scots. Hear about Queen Victoria’s love for the Highlands and how she gave the Atholl Highlanders the status of Europe’s only legally recognised private army. As well as the castle tour, the gardens are home to red squirrels and to St Bride’s Kirk, the resting place of “Bonnie” Dundee, one of Scotland’s great heroes.

Midday: Killiecrankie and Queen’s View

A scenic drive takes us to Killiecrankie Gorge, both a beauty spot and a battlefield. In 1689 the Jacobite army, led by John Graham of Claverhouse (“Bonnie” Dundee), used the famous Highland Charge to defeat the British Redcoat army here. We then continue to Queen’s View, the much-admired viewpoint along Loch Tummel towards Schiehallion and the distant peaks beyond Glencoe.

Afternoon: Pitlochry and The Hermitage

We return to Pitlochry, an elegant Highland town of shops and restaurants. During our break you can have a late lunch, buy souvenirs, or take a short stroll to the hydro-electric dam and its fish ladder. We then walk The Hermitage, a lovely riverside woodland trail past some of Britain’s tallest trees, to a spectacular waterfall where salmon can often be seen leaping.

Evening: Highland cows and home

We finish at Taste of Perthshire, where you can meet the hairy Highland cows, everyone’s favourite photo stop. We then return to Edinburgh, arriving at approximately [your time].

Note: as a private tour, the route and timings can be adapted to your group’s interests.

Tour Highlight

Dunkeld Cathedral

a historic church beside the River Tay

Blair Castle

a Highland fortress with 700 years of history

Killiecrankie Gorge

the site of the 1689 Highland Charge

Queen’s View

the classic viewpoint along Loch Tummel

The Hermitage

a woodland walk to a waterfall

Highland cows

face to face with the hairy coos

Good to know

Pickup point: 9:00am
Private or small-group departure
Wear comfortable walking shoes, since several stops include walks
Lots of time off the bus, so the pace is relaxed
Bring money for lunch in Pitlochry and for castle entry if you wish to go inside
Weatherproof layers recommended year-round

Includes

Expert local driver-guide with live commentary and storytelling

Regular photo stops and woodland walks

Excludes

Meals, food and drinks

Blair Castle entry fee

Driver-guide gratuities (optional)

Personal travel insurance

Flights and accommodation

What Other Explorers Say

Our driver-guide was exceptional! Travelling in a small executive group meant we could pull in at secluded Highland viewpoints the big 50-seater coaches couldn't reach. The local folklore through Glencoe made Scotland truly come alive.

Fiona & David M. 18/05/2026

A truly five-star experience from start to finish. The pace was relaxed and unhurried with ample time for photographs, lochside walks, and an authentic village lunch. Drive Me Wild Scotland exceeded every expectation!

Benjamin C. 11/05/2026

First time exploring Scotland, and this tour made the whole trip unforgettable. Having an authentic Scottish driver-guide sharing personal stories and deep clan history made every mile fascinating. Spotless Mercedes mini-coach!

Marco T. 30/04/2026

The scenery was breathtaking, and the small group atmosphere felt so welcoming. Our driver knew exactly where to stop for panoramic photos away from the crowds and gave great recommendations for the rest of our holiday.

Sarah & Craig W. 22/04/2026

From the prompt city departure to the scenic evening return, everything was seamlessly managed. Warm Scottish hospitality, executive seating with massive panoramic windows, and brilliant storytelling. Outstanding tour!

Louise H. 14/04/2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I bring with me on the tour?

Comfortable walking shoes, a waterproof jacket, warm layers, a camera, and money for lunch and castle entry.

How much walking is there?

There are several gentle walks, including The Hermitage woodland path, which has some uneven ground and steps.

What happens if the Scottish weather is bad?

The tour runs in all weather. Your guide adjusts stops to make the most of conditions, and the woodland and waterfall look dramatic in rain.

Can I cancel or change my booking?

No. This is a day tYou can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before departure and receive a full refund. If you cancel within 24 hours of departure, unfortunately we cannot offer a refund. To cancel, please email us at hello@drivemewildscotland.co.uk as soon as possible. Your cancellation takes effect on the date we receive your written request.our and you return to Edinburgh the same evening.

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